Gombei

We used to frequent the Gombei in Santa Clara pre pandemic and were saddened when we discovered it had closed down. Fortunately, this location has survived and we've been able to enjoy our favorite meal here, the beef yakiniku. We have tried many other things on their menu, all of which were good, but once we tried the beef yakiniku, we've never wanted to miss an opportunity to enjoy it. Presentation, portion, taste and texture, as well as the friendly service, are consistently wonderful and keep us coming back. Thankfully, they have outside tables as we have not yet been brave enough to eat indoors at any restaurant. Thank you, Gombei for keeping our tastebuds and tummies happy and satisfied!

If you ask anybody what's good in San Jose, I'm sure 1/5 people will tell you to stop by Japantown and go eat at Gombei. You can't go wrong with such a classic - both in the sense that it is a landmark here but also serving up classic Japanese diner.If you don't get there right at opening, you will most definitely have to wait! It is a no frills no thrills type of establishment, but you get the coziest and best welcome from the staff. It is a small place, ideal for parties no larger than 4 (5 is pushing it). If you come with more and you're okay with sitting at the bar - that is also an option! Check the board for their specials. Gomebi is Japanese comfort food and just hits right, especially on a cold day. I wish they were opened later hours and longer, but I make the effort to get there at opening so I'm not waiting in the cold for a seat! The portions are surprisingly filling and you get a well rounded meal with eat bento set. My favorite is either their chicken udon (14.5) or the #2 special beek yakiniku with panko spanish mackerel (21). You also can't go wrong with the fried chicken or the fried stuffed tofu as an appetizer. The food comes out fairly quickly and always pipping hot! There is a bathroom and they also take credit card. Seriously, an amazing group of people that run the restaurant and always so friendly. There is nothing else like Gombei in the surrounding area.

Gombei in Japantown San Jose is as authentic as it gets. The menu immediately stood out with its home-style Japanese dishes, and I knew we were in for a treat.What got my attention right away was the Japanese curry, so we had to try the pork curry, and it did not disappoint. We also shared the beef yakiniku and panko Spanish mackerel, both packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. And just when we thought we were done, we got carried away and added tuna sashimi to the mix, fresh and satisfying. A couple of beers later, we were stuffed and happy.Will definitely be back!

This is my daughter's god father's fave joint to eat in SJ so whenever we link up, Gombei is usually his requested meal. I attempted to come here for dinner a few times and ended up leaving due to the long wait times. Standing in the cold with a young toddler was just not feasible. Come here fully prepared to be patient due to the large crowds, especially during dinner time. The establishment itself is on the small side so getting seated takes time. Food is great, hence the large following that religiously comes back for more. I've had the beef & chicken teriyaki, deep fried shrimp, as well as the shrimp udon noodle soup. Flavors are always on point- never bland, flavorfully balanced, and extremely tasty. 4 stars. I eagerly look forward to coming back so I can try the beef dofu.

Delicious food every time I visit! I came at a time where it was almost time to close and received fast service. The plate was packed too !!

I came to Gombei for lunch with some coworkers, and their lunch specials are unmatched. The portions are incredibly generous, and you definitely get your money's worth here.The poke was so fresh and full of flavor, while the chicken karaage was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. I also enjoyed the little side salad they provided, the freshness and dressing added a nice balance to the meal.My colleague didn't like her curry too much. The rice wasn't the freshest, for both meals but it wasn't a big deal to me given how amazing everything else was.

Gombei is the perfect spot for comforting Japanese food that hits all the right notes. After returning from a trip to Japan, I was craving udon and stumbled across this cozy gem. The restaurant has a charming, old-school vibe with a counter setup and vintage dining furniture. The walls are decorated with unique memorabilia, adding to the warm, nostalgic atmosphere. You can tell right away this mom-and-pop spot is something special.I visited with my parents on a Friday for lunch, and the service was quick and seamless--no complaints there.I ordered the Fried Shrimp Udon, which was exactly what I needed. The broth was a bit sweeter than what I had at Tsuru Ton Tan Noodles in Tokyo, but it was still flavorful and hit the spot. The shrimp's batter was distinct and delicious. My dad chose the #1 special: poke sashimi with fried chicken. The poke was fresh and tasty, and the fried chicken was perfectly crispy. My mom went with the pork cutlet curry, which was hearty and comforting, served in a very generous portion--just like the udon.I was thoroughly impressed with both the flavors and the pricing here. If I find myself in Japantown again, Gombei will definitely be on my list to revisit. I'm looking forward to trying their donburi or combo lunch plates next time!

I've heard great things about this place from my family and friends and checked it out with my fiancé. It did not disappoint! Sometime when I'm home, I find myself wondering if I should just order curry from here. It's becoming a go-to for lunch and dinner! Food: I ordered the Chicken Cutlet Curry and my fiancé got the Beef Teriyaki dinner plate. It was perfect. The meal is what you imagine before you eat it. Love! No complaints. The portion is perfect for one person. If you decide to share a plate, I recommend ordering an appetizer in case you're still hungry. They also have cool specials that I want to try when I'm back!Service: It was good. It's a small restaurant, so I believe there's only one or two people who are taking orders, refilling waters, and giving you your check. I would just be a little bit more patient with them. They are all nice people. Location: Located in Japantown, there's ample street parking, but this location does share with the rest of the restaurants. If you're coming during peak hours, you may have to circle a block or so to find parking, but it's not too bad. Overall a great restaurant in Japantown. A go-to for me if I'm craving curry. Does not disappoint.

Gombei continues to be one of my staple restaurants. Home style, Japanese, comfort food. This time I got the katsu and chicken combination which is probably the best deal on the menu. Comes with miso soup and salad plus croquettes and a bowl of white rice. Service is always quick and friendly. And it's cozy interior with a few tables outside when it's not cold.

Gombei has been a mainstay in Japantown for over 4 decades! They serve traditional homestyle meals.I love the simplicity of their menu like Curry Rice, Katsu Curry, Bentos, or their daily specials which feature the freshest ingredients like oden, tofu dishes, grilled fishes, or Sashimi, usually only Ahi. They do not have sushi or any sushi rolls.Service has always been nice and friendly. The restaurant is on the smaller size, so it will not accommodate more than 1-2 parties of 10 people.